Calcium Acetate: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Calcium Acetate is a calcium-based phosphate binder. It is a prescription medicine used for high phosphate in kidney disease, chronic kidney disease and kidney failure on dialysis. In Pakistan it is available as tablets and syrup, made by 6 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Calcium Acetate works

Calcium acetate releases calcium in the gut, which binds to phosphate from food to form an insoluble compound. This compound cannot be absorbed and is passed out in the stool, so less phosphate reaches the bloodstream.

What is Calcium Acetate used for?

• High phosphate in kidney disease
• Chronic kidney disease
• Kidney failure on dialysis

Calcium Acetate is used to control high blood phosphate levels in people with chronic kidney disease, especially those on dialysis. When the kidneys fail, phosphate builds up and can weaken bones, cause itching and lead to calcium deposits in blood vessels. Taken with food, it reduces how much phosphate the body absorbs, alongside a low-phosphate diet advised by the kidney team.

Side effects of Calcium Acetate

Calcium Acetate is generally well tolerated, though some people experience:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Stomach discomfort
• Raised blood calcium

Seek medical advice promptly if you develop signs of high calcium, such as confusion, severe tiredness, muscle weakness, intense thirst, loss of appetite or an irregular heartbeat.

Precautions and warnings

• Take it with meals, as it only works when there is food in the gut to bind.
• Regular blood tests for calcium and phosphate are needed while you take it.
• Tell your doctor if you take digoxin, as high calcium can increase its effects on the heart.
• Calcium can reduce the absorption of some medicines, including certain antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and tetracyclines, levothyroxine and iron, so ask how to space them.
• Avoid other calcium supplements or calcium-containing antacids unless your doctor approves them.

Frequently asked questions about Calcium Acetate

What is the price of Calcium Acetate in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Calcium Acetate products currently in stock range from Rs 286 to Rs 1,832 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Calcium-P Syrup 110ml at Rs 286. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Calcium Acetate are available in Pakistan?

Calcium Acetate is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Seacal (Wilson`s Pharmaceuticals), Lophos (Pharmatec Pakistan Ltd), Calcium-p (P.D.H Pharmaceutical Limited) and Agnar (Getz Pharma Pakistan Muller).

Do I need a prescription for Calcium Acetate?

Yes. Calcium Acetate is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.

Are all Calcium Acetate brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Calcium Acetate in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Calcium Acetate brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 6 products containing Calcium Acetate from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

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